Mercedes offers the best Aussie GP value

The 2013 Formula One season gets underway this weekend in Melbourne. The relative stability in regulations gives us a better idea than many years, but the opening race of the season is still the toughest to predict.

Unsurprisingly it's Sebastian Vettel who is the favourite with the bookmakers at 11/4, while Fernando Alonso is expected to run him close and available at 9/2. Jenson Button, who is ESPNF1's pick to win, has gone out after Martin Whitmarsh’s admission the team is struggling to be ready for the first race.

It’s Lewis Hamilton at 8/1 who looks good value given the strong showing for Mercedes and his team-mate Nico Rosberg at 16/1 offers possibly even better odds.

For an outside bet look for Romain Grosjean to finish on the podium at 5/1 or Pastor Maldonado to finish in the top six at 3/1.

Click here for the latest odds